Boston College on Tuesday hired Temple’s Steve Addazio as the Eagles’ new coach.

Notre Dame defensive coordinator Bob Diaco, winner of the Broyles Award given to the top assistant, was one of three known candidates. The others were Ball State coach Pete Lembo and New Orleans Saints assistant Aaron Kromer.

Boston College has hired Steve Addazio from Temple to coach the Eagles. (AP Photo)

Addazio’s hire came as a surprise, but his success was attractive. The Owls’ victory over New Mexico was its first bowl win in 32 years.

Temple left the MAC for the Big East and was placed in the league’s new west division along with San Diego State, Boise State, Houston, Memphis and SMU. That could have been enough to push Addazio out the door as the Big East struggles for a positive identity.

“Steve Addazio has done a tremendous job with Temple football in his two years at the university, and we wish him nothing but the best,” Temple athletic director Bill Bradshaw said. “Temple football has never been stronger, and I am confident we will be able to attract a high-level pool of candidates for the position and the program will continue its upward momentum.”

At Boston College he replaces Frank Spaziani, who was fired after four seasons. Spaziani finished with a 21-29 record.

Addazio has strong ties to the Northeast, which Boston College would find attractive. He has been an assistant at Syracuse, Notre Dame, Indiana and Florida. He coached high school football in Connecticut as well.

Boston College is coming off a 2-10 season, including a 1-7 mark in the ACC.